The scene "has been set for what shapes as one of the most turbulent weeks" in National Rugby League side Parramatta's history, with the club claiming that plotters are awaiting the release of the NRL's salary cap findings to "come out of the long grass and do the privatisation deed," according to Chris Barrett of the SYDNEY MORNING HERALD.
On Tuesday the NRL "is expected to announce the outcome of the Integrity Unit's investigation into Parramatta's third-party deals," a development that depending on the severity of any penalty determined by CEO Todd Greenberg "could cripple an otherwise promising season."
Parramatta Chair Steve Sharp declared on Sunday the club was ready to appeal sanctions in the courts, arguing they have not been afforded "natural justice and procedural fairness." Sources close to the board said that they "have already assembled a team of barristers ready to take on League Central." Directors "are also readying to front members at Monday night's annual general meeting of Parramatta Leagues Club at which the board, which runs the Eels, will attempt to to fend off what they believe is a behind-the-scenes campaign to capitalise on the cap drama and privatise the NRL club." Sharp:
"It's an ever-present concern. Right now the proponents are hoping the salary cap investigation weakens the club so they can come out of the long grass and do the privatization deed." Members of the Eels hierarchy said that they are wary of former Macquarie Bank exec Bill Moss, who said last year he would "be happy to be part of a syndicate" to facilitate privatization, believing it to be "the only way forward for a club beset by internal politics and dysfunction in recent years" (SMH, 5/1).
